Craftsman 48624506 Owner’s Manual

Operators Manual

I CRRFTSMRN°I

5 H.P,

VAC SYSTEM

Model No. 486.24506

• Safety

CAUTION:
Before using this product,

read this manual and follow

all Safety Rules and
Operating Instructions.

Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
www.sears.com/craftsman

PRINTED IN U.S.A. FORM NO. 47763 (8/00)

• Assembly

• Operation

• Maintenance

• Parts

WARRANTY ............................................................... 2

SAFETY RULES ........................................................ 3

ACCESSORIES AND ATTACHMENTS ................... 5

FULL SIZE HARDWARE CHART ............................. 6

CARTON CONTENTS ............................................... 8

ASSEMBLY ................................................................ 9

OPERATION ............................................................ 19

MAINTENANCE ....................................................... 21

STORAGE ......... :...................................................... 21

TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................. 22

REPAIR PARTS ILLUSTRATIONS ............ 23,24,26

REPAIR PARTS LISTS ................................ 23,25,26

SLOPE GUIDE ......................................................... 27

PARTS ORDERING/SERVICE ............... Rear Cover

LIMITED WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN POWERED TRACTOR ATTACHMENTS
For one (1) year from the date of purchase, if this Craftsman Equipment is maintained, lubricated

and tuned up according to the instructions in the owner's manual, Sears will repair or replace free
of charge any parts found to be defective in material or workmanship. Warranty service is avail-
able free of charge by returning your Craftsman equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center.

In-home warranty service is available but a trip charge will apply. This Warranty applies only

while this product is in the United States.

This Warranty does not cover:

• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as spark plugs, air cleaners,
belts, and oil filters.

• Tire replacement or repair caused by punctures from outside objects, such as nails, thorns,
stumps, or glass.

• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse, including but not limited to, damage caused by
impacting objects that bend the frame or crankshaft, or over-speeding the engine.

• Repairs necessary because of operator negligence, including but not limited to, electrical and
mechanical damage caused by improper storage, failure to use the proper grade and amount

of engine oil, or failure to maintain the equipment according to the instructions contained in the
owner's manual.

• Engine (fuel system) cleaning or repairs caused by fuel determined to be contaminated or
oxidized (stale). In general, fuel should be used within 30 days of its purchase date.

• Equipment used for commercial or rental purposes.

LIMITED WARRANTY ON BATTERY
For ninety (90) days from date of purchase, if any battery included with the equipment proves

defective in material or workmanship and our testing determines the battery will not hold a
charge, Sears will replace the battery at no charge. Warranty service is available free of charge

by returning your Craftsman equipment to your nearest Sears Service Center. In-home warranty
service is available but a trip charge will apply. This Warranty applies only while this product is in

the United States.

TO LOCATE THE NEAREST SEARS SERVICE CENTER OR TO SCHEDULE SERVICE,
SIMPLY CONTACT SEARS AT 1-800-4-MY-HOME.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which vary from
state to state.

Any power equipment can cause injury if operated improperly or if the user does not understand how to operate the
equipment. Exercise caution at all times, when using power equipment.

• Read and follow all instructions in this manual before

attempting to assemble or operate this equipment. Failure
to comply with these instructions may result in personal

injury. Keep this manual in a safe place for future reference
and for ordedng replacement pads.

• Read this operating and service instruction manual carefully.

Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and proper use of
this power vacuum.

• Read the vehicle owners manual and vehicle safe operation

rules before using this equipment.

• Never allow children under 16 to operate this Mow-N-Vec.
Children 16 years and older should only operate under
close parental supervision.

• Do not allow anyone to operate this equipment without
proper instructions.

• Do not allow passengers to ride on this equipment or on the
towing vehicle.

• Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particularly
small children. Also keep area clear of pets.

• Check fuel before starting engine. Do not fill fuel tank
indoors, or when engine is_,unning, or while engine is hot.
Wipe off any spilled fuel before starting engine.

• Engine and muffler get hot. Do not touch! To avoid fire
hazard, keep clean of debris and other accumulations.

• Never store Mow-N-Vac with fuel in tank. Allow engine to
cool before storing in any enclosure.

• Do not change engine governor settings.

• Do not operate engine if air cleaner or cover is removed,

except for adjustment. Removal of these parts could create
a fire hazard.

• Keep hands, feet, face, long hair and clothing out of inlet
and discharge area. There are ROTATING BLADES inside

these openings.

• Before cleaning, repairing or inspecting, make certain all
moving parts come to a complete stop. Disconnect spark

plug wire and keep wire away from plug to prevent acciden-

tal starting. Keep throtUe control lever in stop position.

• Ifthe Mow-N-Vac should become blocked with debris at any

point, shut engine off and wait until the impeller comes to a
complete stop before attempting to remove the obstruction.

Disconnect spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting.

• If the cuttingmechanismstrikesa foreign object,or if your
Mow-N-Vac should start to vibrate abnormally,stop the
engine immediately, disconnect the spark plug wire and
movethe wireawayfromthesparkplug.Allowthe machine
to stopand take the following steps.

a. Inspectfor damage.
b. Repair or replaceany damaged pads.

c. Check for loose parts and tighten toassure

Continuedsafe operation.

• Check all boltsfor tightness at frequent intervalsto help

insuresafe operation.

• Check vinyl hard top boot frequently for wear. Replace if
wornordamaged.

• Never operate Mow-N-Vac unless deck adapter, hose,

hose adapter (nozzle), discharge chute (elbow), and top
cover are properlyattached intheir place.

• Do not removetop cover or attempt to empty contentsof
cart whileengineis running.

• Never attemptto change hoseadapter (nozzle) ortoinstall
remote hose attachment when engine is running.

• Keep all shields and guards (e.g. dischargechute(elbow)
and hose adapter (nozzle) inplace and securelyattached.

• Alwayswear safety glassesorother suitableeye protection
when operatingor maintainingthis equipment.

• Do not stand behind cart in exhaust discharge area while

engine is running.

• Do not operate this equipment while intoxicatedor while
taking drugs or medication that impairs the senses and

reactions."

• When usingthisequipment,startwiththe vehicletransmis-
sionin first (low).gear and then gradually increasespeed

onlyas conditionspermit.

• Operate thisequipmentat reducedspeedonroughterrain,
along creeksand_litchesand on slopesto preventtipping

or lossofcontrol.Donotdrive toocloseto a creek or ditch.

• Vehicle brakingand stabilityare affectedbythe additionof
thisequipment.Do notfill the Mow-N-Vec toitsfull capacity

without checking the capability of the towing vehicle to
safely pulland stopwith the Mow-N-Vac attached.

• Beforeoperatingonany grade (hill)referto the safetyrules
inthevehicleowner'smanualconcerningsafeoperationon

slopes. Also refer to theSLOPE GUIDE onpage 23 ofthis
owner'smanual. Do notoperate onslopes inexcessof10
degrees. STAY OFF STEEP SLOPES.

• Followthe maintenanceinstructionsoutlinedinthismanual.

Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means--Attentlont! Become alert!1

Your safety is involved.

DANGER: This Vac System was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in

this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the opera-
tor can result in serious injury. This unit is capable of amputating fingers and hands and throwing

objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

3

TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY

• Read Owner's Manual and all safety labels on machine before starting and using machine.

• Do Not remove top cover or attempt to empty contents of cart while engine is running.

• Do Not stand behind cart in exhaust discharge area while engine is running.

• Keep hands, feet, face, long hair and clothing out of chipper inlet, vac inlet, and discharge

area. There are ROTATING BLADES inside these openings.

• Wear approved safety glasses and gloves. Avoid loose fitting clothes.

• Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particularly small children and pets.

• Keep all shields and guards (e.g. upper chipper chute extension, discharge chute, nozzle
assembly) in place and securely attached.

• Check discharge boot frequently for wear. Replace if worn or damaged.

• If unit becomes clogged or jammed, shut off engine right away. Do Not attempt to clear
clog or jam with engine running•

• Muffler and engine get hot and can cause burns. Do Not Touch• To avoid a fire hazard,

keep leaves, grass and other combustible debris off hot muffler and engine.

• Do Not attempt to remove or attach vac nozzle or optional Hose Kit with engine running.
!• Do Not operate unit unless nozzle or optional Hose Kit is secured in place.

I

i° Do Not fill gas tank while engine is running. Allow engine to cool at least 2 minutes
I before refueling.

MUFFLER & ADJACENT AREAS
MAY EXCEED 150 oF

WARNING

This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near unimproved forest-covered,
or grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting applicable local or

state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.

In the State of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other
states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester muffler is available at your nearest

engine authorized service center.

These accessories were available when the unit was purchased. They are also available at most Sears retail

outlets and service centers. Most Sears stores can order repair parts for you when you provide the model
numbers of your tractor and Vac System.

\\ it

provides a 15' x 5" diameter hose to clean

around shrubs, patios, window wells and other

I he Hand Wand Attachment, Model 486.24509

areas not accessible to the tractor.

attached to the engine base.
You should record both the serial number and the date of

I he model and serial numbers will be found on a decal

purchase and keep in a safe place for future reference.

MODELNUMBER:

SERIALNUMBER:

DATE OF PURCHASE:

5

486.24506

SHOWN FULL SIZE

/Y jZ /AA +/BB jCC /DD +fEE

GG

i i [

NOT SHOWN FULL SIZE

/JJ_/KK /LL _)I MM

UU VV WW XX

HH

PP

6

ATTENTION! Keep contents of each hardware package separate for easier assembly.

CONTENTS OF HARDWARE PACKAGES IN CART CARTON

Ref. Qty. Description Ref.

A

3

Bolt, Hex 3/8" x 3"

B

2

Bolt, Hex 1/4" x 1-3/4"

D

2

Bolt, Hex 3/8" x 1-1/4"

J

9

Bolt, Hex 1/4" x 5/8"

M

14

Bolt, Truss Head 5/16" x 3/4"

O

11

Lockwasher, 1/4"

P

14

Lockwasher, 5/16"

Q

5

Lockwasher, 3/8"

R

2

Flat Washer, 1/4"

X

4

Flat Washer, 1"

Z

BB
EE

GG
HH

JJ

KK

NN

CONTENTS OF (2) VAC HARDWARE PACKAGES IN VAC CARTON

Extra nuts and washers are included in these packages.

Ref. Qty. Description

C 1 Hex Bolt, 1/2" x 1-1/4"

E 2 Hex Bolt, 1/4" x 1-1/4"

G 4 Hex Bolt, 1/4" x 1"
H 6 Hex Bolt, 5/16" x 3/4"

J 30 Hex Bolt, I/4" x 5/8"

L 4 Hex Bolt, 5/16" x 3/4" Thread Forming
N 2 Truss Bolt Head, #10-32 x 5/8"
O 40 Lock Washer, 1/4"

P 4 Lock Washer, 5/16"
R 26 Flat Washer, 1/4"

S 6 Nylon Washer
U 4 Flat Washer, 3/8"

V 1 Flat Washer, 7/16"

W 4 Flat Washer, 11/32" x 1-1/2"

Ref. Qty. Description

Y 2 Hex Nut, #10-32

Z 46 Hex Nut, 1/4"

AA 2 Hex Lock Nut, 1/4"
DD 6 Nylock Nut, 5/16"

EE 2 Hex Lock Nut, 3/8"
FF 1 Hex Lock Nut, 1/2"

LL 1 Hitch P!ate

MM 3 Knob
OO 1 Tarp Str_p, 25 =

PP 2 Tarp Strap (Less Hooks)

QQ 2 "S" Hooks

RR 2 Eye Bolt
SS 1 Door Latch (RH)

TT 1 Door Latch (LH)
UU 3 Hinge

Qty. Description

11 Hex Nut, 1/4"
14 Hex Nut, 5/16"

5 Nut, Hex Lock 3/8"
2 Pin, Cotter 1/8" x 1-1/2"

1

Hair Cotter Pin, 1/8"

II

2

Hub Cap

2

Spacer Tube

2

Door Support

1

Hitch Pin

CONTENTS OF DECK ADAPTER HARDWARE PACKAGE IN VAC CARTON

Not all parts in thislist will be used for any one tractor.

Ref. Qty. Description

F 2

I 3
K 2
R 3

S 3
T 12

AA 3

CO 3
VV 1

VWV 1

XX 1

Hex Bolt, 5/16" x 1"

Hex Bolt, 1/4" x 3/4"
Carriage Bolt, 5/16" x 3/4"
Flat Washer, 1/4"
Nylon Washer
Flat Washer, 5/16"
Hex Lock Nut, 1/4"
Hex Lock Nut, 5/16"
Mounting Strap

Angle Bracket

Mounting Bracket

7

CARTON CONTENTS (Cart Carton)

10

Ref. Qty. Description Ref. Qty.

1 1 Wheel Support 6 1

2 1 Rear Tongue 7 1

3 1 Front Tongue 8 1
4 1 Hose Hanger Rod Assembly 9 1

5 2 Cart BooT_es 10 2

1

\

Description

Hose
Tailgate Reinforcement Bracket

Axle
Latch Stand Bracket
Wheels

7

\

16

CARTON CONTENTS (Vac Carton)

Ref. Qty.

1 1

2 2

3 2
4 1
5 1
6 1
7 1
8 2
9 2

Description Ref, Qty. Description

Front Panel 10 1 Deck Adapter
Side Brackets 11 1 Poly Hard Top

Side Panels 12 1 Elbow
Dump Handle 13 1 Skid Plate

Prop Rod (Right) 14 1 Hitch Bracket
Prop Rod (Left) 15 1 Adapter Bracket
Rear Door 16 1 Engine/Impeller Assembly
Tie Rods 17 1 Hose Adapter (Nozzle)
Hose Clamps 18 1 Hose Hanger Bracket

8

This unit is shipped WITHOUT GASOLINE or OIL. After
assembly, see separate engine manual for proper fuel
and engine oil recommendations.

TOOLS REQUIRED FOR ASSEMBLY

(1) Screwdriver
(1) Pliers
(1) 3/8" Wrench
(2) 7/16" Wrenches
(2) 1/2" Wrenches
(2) 9/16" Wrenches

(2) 3/4" Wrenches (only if figure 27 on page 15 is used)

REMOVAL OF PARTS FROM CARTONS

• Remove the hardware packs and all loose parts from

the cartons.

• Lay out and identify parts shown in carton contents.

• Lay out and identify parts in the hardware packs.
Keep contents of each hardware package separate

for easier assembly.

• Fit the tailgate reinforcement bracket over the end of
the cart bed. Position the two door support brackets

on the bottom of the reinforcement bracket as shown
in figure 2. Fasten the reinforcement bracket and the
door supports to the bottom of the cart using six 5/16"

x 3/4" truss head screws, 5/16" lock washers and
5/16" hex nuts. Do not tighten yet. See figure 2.

• Fasten the tailgate reinforcement bracket to the sides
of the cart body using four 1/4" x 5/8" hex bolts, 1/4"

lock washers and 1/4" hex nuts as shown in figure 2.

Do not tighten yet.

1/4" HEX NUT 1/4" LOCK

WASHER

114"x 5/8"
HEX BOLT

/

/

ASSEMBLING THE VAC SYSTEM

• Place cart body halves upright on a smooth level
surface such as a garage floor or a paved driveway.
See figure 1.

CAUTION: Do not leave the cart unattended
in upright position during assembly. A falling

cart can cause personal injury! Pay close

A

• Assemble cart body halves together using three 1/4"

attention to the stability of the cart while it
remains in an upright position. For best stability,

assemble on a smooth level surface.

x 5/8" hex bolts, 1/4" lock washers and 1/4" hex nuts
as shown in figure 1. Do not tighten yet.

1/4" x 518"
HEX BOLT

114" HEX NUT

DOOR
SUPPORT

/"

TAILGATE

5/16" LOCK REINFORCEMENT

5/16" HEX NUT WASHER BRACKET

FIGURE 2

• Pull the cart body halves together.
Tighten the six truss head screws in figure 2.
Tighten the four hex bolts in figure 2.
Tighten the three hex bolts in figure 1, keeping the

bottom aligned and pulled together.

• Carefully flip the cart end for end so that it rests on
the tailgate reinforcement bracket. See figure 3.

FIGURE 1

FIGURE 3